Cyclone Chido Leaves Death and Destruction in Mayotte as It Approaches Africa

Cyclone Chido has devastated Mayotte, causing fatalities and extensive damage, and is moving towards mainland Africa, affecting Comoros and anticipated to hit Mozambique. French authorities mobilize emergency services amid the disaster, while broader regional concerns heighten as the cyclone season progresses.

Cyclone Chido has wreaked havoc in the French territory of Mayotte in the Indian Ocean, resulting in several fatalities, according to officials reports on Saturday. As the cyclone advances toward Africa’s eastern coastline, preliminary assessments by French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau suggest a significant number of casualties, though specific figures remain unavailable due to ongoing rescue efforts. He stated, “We’re afraid the toll will be high, but for the moment I can’t give any figures,” and described Mayotte as appearing “devastated.”

The cyclone, featuring winds exceeding 220 kph (136 mph), has resulted in the detachment of roofs and the destruction of public facilities such as the prefecture, hospital, and airport. Prime Minister François Bayrou described the damage as severe, particularly for inhabitants of precarious housing. Simultaneously, President Emmanuel Macron continues to monitor developments closely. The prefect of Mayotte, François-Xavier Bieuville, noted on social media that this cyclone represents the most violent strike since 1934, with significant loss of property and lives.

In response, the French Interior Ministry has mobilized 1,600 police and gendarmerie officers to assist residents and guard against potential looting. Rescue efforts are underway, with additional fire and rescue personnel being deployed from France and the nearby territory of Reunion. The situation is further complicated as Mayotte remains under red alert, with officials urging residents to seek shelter. Reports indicate widespread power outages and destruction of structures in the area.

Cyclone Chido is also impacting the Comoros Islands, prompting authorities to close the main airport and schools while ordering boats to remain docked. The cyclone is projected to reach mainland Mozambique shortly, posing risks to an estimated 2.5 million inhabitants across northern provinces. Neighboring Malawi and Zimbabwe are bracing for potential flooding and displacement. The cyclone season from December to March has become increasingly perilous in southern Africa, with past storms like Cyclone Idai in 2019 inflicting numerous casualties and extensive damage. Experts emphasize that the severity of these cyclones is exacerbated by climate change, disproportionately affecting countries with minimal contributions to this crisis.

Cyclones are severe weather phenomena that can cause catastrophic damage through high winds, flooding, and subsequent health crises due to water contamination. Cyclone Chido is a recent example occurring in a region often affected by seasonal storms, particularly from December to March. Southern Africa, with its limited resources and vulnerability to climate risks, faces significant humanitarian challenges when severe weather events strike. The intensity of recent cyclones indicates a trend that is linked to climate change, impacting poorer nations that contribute minimally to global warming while experiencing its dire consequences.

In summary, Cyclone Chido has significantly impacted Mayotte and surrounding areas, leading to multiple deaths and extensive property damage. With rescue operations ongoing and additional aid being dispatched, the immediate focus remains on restoring safety and addressing the needs of those affected. The anticipated trajectory of the cyclone poses further threats to populations in Mozambique and nearby countries, accentuating the ongoing challenges posed by seasonal cyclones in the context of climate change.

Original Source: www.cnn.com